Bio-based polyesters for demanding long-term applications
Making biopolymers fit for long-term use: New project will optimise bio-based materials to compete with petrochemical plastics
Current bio-based plastics are limited to short-life applications, such as packaging, as they have insufficient long-term properties. The new project "Bio-based polyesters for demanding long-term applications" by Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF aims to improve the long-term properties of biopolymers through tailored additivation enabling their use in technical applications. Therefore, the researchers are looking for partners along the value chain that would like to substitute petro-based plastics with bio-based solutions for durable products.
In the planned project, bio-based materials will be optimized through tailored additivation to be competitive with petrochemical plastics. Researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF have conducted research in the field of polymer additives in numerous projects in recent years and have been able to improve the long-term properties of polymers made from both fossil and renewable raw materials. The aim of the project is the sustainable substitution of petro-based engineering plastics based on previously gained knowledge on material optimization and implementation along the entire value chain.
Minimal changes in the manufacturing process
The project addresses the challenges of the long-term properties of biopolymers. Existing data on long-term stability and the stabilizers used are compiled in a comprehensive literature review. Together with the project partners, material specification is drawn up which defines the properties to be achieved. Market-available biopolymers and additives are identified and tested regarding their properties. The biopolymers are modified by developing new formulations on a pilot plant scale. The aim is to enable material substitution with minimal changes to existing manufacturing processes.
The Fraunhofer scientists are looking for partners along the value chain, from manufacturers of polymers and additives to manufacturers that want to substitute individual components in their designs, with a particular focus on developers and producers of finished components.
Securing competitive advantages together: Sustainable, sophisticated plastic products
OEMs and manufacturers of plastic components from the construction, automotive, sports and leisure, electrical and electronic components and household appliances sectors who want to substitute petro-based polymers with bio-based solutions will gain sufficient knowledge to optimize their own research and development, by participating in the new project "Bio-based polyesters for demanding long-term applications". They benefit directly from new insights and thus secure competitive advantages. Raw material and additive manufacturers can expand their existing product portfolio with new application possibilities and compounders can prepare themselves for future challenges in the use of biopolymers.
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